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THE INTRODUCTION of a dress code at Knock shrine in Co Mayo was intended as “a guideline” for pilgrims, shrine manager Pat Lavelle said last night. It was also intended to bring the shrine into line with similar practice at Lourdes, the Vatican, the Holy Land and other pilgrimage sites and destinations, he said.

There was no question of enforcement, as such, where the guidelines were concerned but the hope was pilgrims would comply as they do at other shrines, he said. At the other shrines/pilgrimage destinations referred to, such dress codes are enforced strictly.